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PGA, Golf Herren The Masters – Practice Round Apr 4, 2023 Augusta, Georgia, USA Cameron Smith putts on the no. 3 green during a practice round for The Masters golf tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Augusta Augusta National Golf Club Georgia USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xDaniellexParhizkaranx 20230404_xk2__0015
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PGA, Golf Herren The Masters – Practice Round Apr 4, 2023 Augusta, Georgia, USA Cameron Smith putts on the no. 3 green during a practice round for The Masters golf tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Augusta Augusta National Golf Club Georgia USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xDaniellexParhizkaranx 20230404_xk2__0015
In the challenging conditions of The 151st Open, Cameron Smith has demonstrated his tenacity and brilliant skill. He battled through a roller-coaster round to secure a place in the weekend’s action. The Australian golfer faced numerous obstacles, including a crucial tee shot that found a bunker on the 14th hole.
Moreover, this comes just days after he was undoubtedly left disappointed for not making it to the featured group despite being the defending champion. These upsets, along with his few bunker shots during the first two rounds, threatened to derail his performance. However, Cameron Smith’s determination and focus prevailed as he finished strong, securing a spot in the next rounds and keeping his hopes alive. And the reigning champion had lots to say about it all, too!
Amidst challenges, Cameron Smith emerges triumphant
Throughout the day, Smith showcased his ability to hit good shots despite the unpredictable nature of the Hoylake course. However, he found himself struggling with bunkers off the tee, a recurring issue that turned an otherwise impressive round into a grind. Facing the prospect of missing the cut line, Smith knew he needed to make a birdie on the final hole to secure his place in the weekend rounds. He said, “Yeah, I was aware that I had to make birdie. It was nice to hit a good drive down there.”
When asked about the pressure he faced on the 18th hole, Smith humbly acknowledged the significance of the moment. His 6-iron shot from 215 meters was executed with precision, giving him a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Reflecting on the challenging day, he expressed relief at ending on a positive note.
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As per the Australian star, the 14th hole proved to be a turning point in Smith’s round. The tee shot that found the bunker altered his approach, forcing him to play defensively for par instead of aggressively pursuing birdies. However, he remained focused. “I think after 14, it was hard to kind of recoup, but we had a long wait on 15 and had a few sips of water, and just got the mind right, ready for the last four,” he said. This display of mental strength demonstrated his ability to bounce back after adversity and not let a difficult moment define his performance.
A shot at redemption: Smith’s optimism and ambition for the weekend
Qualifying for the weekend rounds was a significant relief for Cameron Smith. In the interview, he acknowledged the frustration he would have felt had he missed the cut. While he made multiple bogeys and double bogeys during the two rounds, the reigning champion ended them both one over par, scraping through the cut at 2-over par.
USA Today via Reuters
Oct 28, 2022; Miami, Florida, USA; Cameron Smith plays his shot off the 11th tee during the first round of the season finale of the LIV Golf series at Trump National Doral. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Though facing a considerable deficit on the leaderboard, Smith remains optimistic about his chances to make a comeback over the weekend. With changeable weather conditions forecast for the weekend, he undoubtedly knows that a tough road lies ahead. However, the Aussie remains hopeful for a strong showing that could see him rise up the ranks.
Cam Smith’s performance at The 151st Open exemplifies the resilience and determination required to succeed in elite-level golf. Despite facing setbacks, he maintained a positive attitude and stayed patient. However, whether he will be able to rise to the top remains to be seen!
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